The case for therapeutic positivism in head and neck malignancy

A negative attitude toward the treatment of advanced malignancy of the head and neck is frequently encountered. Aggressive therapy, at least for certain patients, is reasonable, and the assessment of certain factors in choosing candidates for such therapy is important. Illustrative case presentations demonstrate that a meaningful number of patients receive palliation or even cure with radical therapy. In view of the grim choices, it seems appropriate to take a positive, if radical, approach when the patient is highly motivated.